Topotecan
Ovarian Neoplasms, Non-Small-Cell Lung Carcinoma ... show more
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Topoisomerase Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Topotecan
Summary
Topotecan is used to treat small cell lung cancer that has relapsed after initial chemotherapy. It's used when the cancer has responded to the first line of treatment but has returned at least 45 days after the last dose of the initial chemotherapy.
Topotecan works by inhibiting an enzyme called topoisomerase I, which is involved in DNA replication. By preventing this enzyme from repairing DNA breaks, Topotecan causes cancer cells to die, thereby slowing or stopping the growth of cancer.
Topotecan is typically taken once a day for 5 days in a row every 21 days. The usual daily dose for adults is 2.3 mg/m, taken orally. It can be taken with or without food. Swallow the capsules whole with water and do not open, chew, or crush them.
Common side effects of Topotecan include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fatigue. Serious adverse effects include severe myelosuppression, which leads to decreased blood cell counts and increased infection risk. Diarrhea can be severe and life-threatening.
Topotecan can cause severe myelosuppression, increasing infection risk. It's contraindicated in patients with severe hypersensitivity to topotecan. Pregnant women should avoid it due to the risk of fetal harm. Patients should be monitored for blood cell counts, diarrhea, and interstitial lung disease.
Indications and Purpose
How does Topotecan work?
Topotecan works by inhibiting the enzyme topoisomerase I, which is involved in DNA replication. By preventing this enzyme from repairing DNA breaks, Topotecan causes cancer cells to die, thereby slowing or stopping the growth of cancer.
Is Topotecan effective?
Topotecan is effective in treating small cell lung cancer that has relapsed after initial chemotherapy. Clinical trials have shown that patients receiving Topotecan with best supportive care had a statistically significant improvement in overall survival compared to those receiving supportive care alone.
What is Topotecan?
Topotecan is used to treat small cell lung cancer that has relapsed after initial chemotherapy. It belongs to a class of medications called topoisomerase I inhibitors, which work by preventing cancer cells from repairing themselves, leading to their death. This helps in controlling the spread of cancer.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Topotecan?
Topotecan is typically taken once a day for 5 days in a row every 21 days. The number of cycles you will undergo depends on your medical condition and how you respond to the treatment. Your doctor will decide the total duration of your treatment.
How do I take Topotecan?
Topotecan should be taken once daily for 5 consecutive days, starting on Day 1 of a 21-day cycle. It can be taken with or without food. Swallow the capsules whole with water, and do not open, chew, or crush them. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.
How should I store Topotecan?
Topotecan should be stored in the refrigerator at temperatures between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) and protected from light. Keep it in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Do not flush it down the toilet; instead, use a medicine take-back program for disposal.
What is the usual dose of Topotecan?
The usual daily dose of Topotecan for adults is 2.3 mg/m² taken orally once daily for 5 consecutive days, starting on Day 1 of a 21-day cycle. The dosage for children is not established as safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been determined. Always follow your doctor's advice for dosing.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Topotecan with other prescription drugs?
Topotecan's effectiveness can be affected by drugs that inhibit P-glycoprotein or breast cancer resistance protein, as they increase topotecan's concentration in the body. Avoid using these inhibitors concurrently. Always inform your doctor about all medications you're taking to avoid adverse interactions.
Can Topotecan be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Women are advised not to breastfeed during treatment with Topotecan and for 1 week after the last dose due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants. Consult your doctor for guidance on feeding your baby during this time.
Can Topotecan be taken safely while pregnant?
Topotecan can cause fetal harm based on animal studies, leading to embryolethality and teratogenicity. Pregnant women should avoid using Topotecan, and females of reproductive potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for 6 months after the last dose. Males should use contraception for 3 months after the last dose.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Topotecan?
Topotecan may cause fatigue, which can limit your ability to exercise. If you feel unusually tired, it's important to rest and avoid strenuous activities. Consult your doctor if fatigue affects your daily activities, as they may need to adjust your treatment.
Is Topotecan safe for the elderly?
In elderly patients, treatment-related diarrhea is more frequent. It's important for older adults to be closely monitored for side effects, especially diarrhea, which can be severe. No overall differences in effectiveness were observed between older and younger patients, but caution is advised.
Who should avoid taking Topotecan?
Topotecan can cause severe myelosuppression, leading to a decrease in blood cells and increasing infection risk. It's contraindicated in patients with severe hypersensitivity to topotecan. Patients should be monitored for blood cell counts, diarrhea, and interstitial lung disease. Pregnant women should avoid it due to fetal harm risk.
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